The University of Iowa will host Earth Expo, an environmental and alternative energy festival, from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, in Hubbard Park on the UI campus. The event is free and open to the public.

Earth Expo will showcase ways in which local residents can reduce their daily environmental impact to live in a cleaner, healthier and happier community and world. Local groups currently using creative eco- and energy-related solutions will be present, as well as a diverse array of speakers and engaging demonstrations. Entertainment will include live music, recycled art displays, activities for children, food and a solar power backpack raffle.

Featuring speakers, demonstrations, presentations, exhibits, live music, arts, contests and food, Earth Expo is designed to appeal to a wide audience interested in alternative energy and environmental solutions useful in the home, yard, office or daily life. Businesses and organizations exhibiting at Earth Expo plan to share their environmental initiatives with community members, who may become future organization members, volunteers or clients.

Visitors to Earth Expo will learn how to make biodiesel in their garage, receive tips on organic food preparation, see a corn-burning stove in action and learn about topics such as wind power, green building, home composting, geothermal heating, sustainable living and more.

Organizers of the event hope the broad range of topics covered will appeal to a diverse section of the community. "Whether you're curious about organic products, hybrid cars or renewable energy for your home, there should be something at Earth Expo for everyone," said director Sheila Samuelson. "Or just stop down to hear some great local music." Public Property, Dr. Z's Experiment and the UI Percussion Trio will be performing.

Earth Expo is a joint endeavor of The James Gang, a community building organization and member of the Johnson County Cultural Alliance; The Environmental Project; University of Iowa Student Government; and the UI College of Engineering chapter of Engineers for a Sustainable World.